a vexing issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vexing issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a problem or topic that is frustrating or difficult to deal with. Example: "The debate over climate change remains a vexing issue for policymakers around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

The announcement returns attention to a vexing issue particular to the ephemeral art form of dance.

The New York Times - Arts

Television: Where to put the TV is always a vexing issue.

The New York Times - Style

The balance between form and content has been a vexing issue.

The New York Times - Arts

Mike Krzyzewski offered a novel approach to a vexing issue Monday.

The New York Times - Sports

There were those dead horses, a vexing issue up until the early part of the last century.

The New York Times

But while few would dispute the artistic credentials of these pictures, their national identity remains a vexing issue.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

A particular vexing issue that has not been fully addressed in siRNA screens is the question of knock-down efficiency.

Plosone

A somewhat more vexing issue arose when attempting to determine gene copy number due to limitations in our design and dye-terminator sequencing.

BMC Genomics

If Romney had won, his party would have been able to figure out this vexing issue from a position of strength.

The New Yorker

The Big 12 formally announced Friday morning that West Virginia would become a member of the league, but one vexing issue remained: when will the Mountaineers leave the Big East?

The New York Times - Sports

INSIDE PITCH The right-hander Shaun Marcum was scheduled to fly to St . Louison Sunday night to have additional tests for a vexing injury issue.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a vexing issue", ensure the context clearly establishes the source and nature of the frustration or difficulty. Provide specific details to enhance clarity.

Common error

While appropriate for formal writing and news reporting, avoid using "a vexing issue" excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a tricky problem" or "a difficult question" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vexing issue" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where 'vexing' acts as a descriptive adjective modifying 'issue'. It identifies and characterizes a specific problem or subject of concern. Ludwig and its examples show its use in various contexts to highlight challenges.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a vexing issue" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe a problem that is frustrating or challenging. Ludwig AI indicates that it's widely accepted and provides suitable alternatives, such as "a thorny issue" or "a difficult problem", depending on the context. While appropriate for formal and neutral registers, it should be used judiciously in informal settings. Its presence in reputable sources like The New York Times, Forbes and The Guardian underscores its credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thorny issue

Emphasizes the problematic and potentially painful aspects of the issue.

a difficult problem

Focuses on the challenging nature of finding a solution.

a complex matter

Highlights the intricate and multifaceted nature of the issue.

a challenging question

Presents the issue as a question that requires careful consideration and effort.

a troublesome concern

Indicates that the issue is a source of worry or anxiety.

a delicate situation

Suggests the issue requires careful handling to avoid negative consequences.

a sticky situation

Indicates the issue requires careful handling to avoid negative consequences.

a knotty problem

Highlights the intricate and difficult-to-untangle nature of the issue.

a puzzling question

Emphasizes the confusing and unclear aspects of the question.

an intractable problem

Highlights the persistent and difficult-to-resolve nature of the problem.

FAQs

What does "a vexing issue" mean?

The phrase "a vexing issue" refers to a problem or matter that causes frustration, annoyance, or difficulty. It implies that the issue is not easily resolved and can be quite bothersome.

How can I use "a vexing issue" in a sentence?

You can use "a vexing issue" to describe any challenging problem. For example: "Climate change remains "a vexing issue" for policymakers worldwide." or "The question of funding for the new project is "a vexing issue"."

What are some alternatives to "a vexing issue"?

Alternatives to "a vexing issue" include "a thorny issue", "a difficult problem", or "a complex matter". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "a vexing issue" formal or informal?

"A vexing issue" is generally considered more formal. In informal contexts, you might prefer phrases like "a tricky issue" or "a tough problem", which are less stilted.